My mom said, “No one needs you to come this Christmas.” “Cool,” I replied. Then I added one sentence: “Well… everything will be canceled then.” And slowly, my mom’s face turned pale.

she had to do. She even used your fund when Dad’s business went south. For all of us. Stop acting like you’re the only victim.”

My brain stalled.

“What fund?”

There was a tiny pause, as if he realized too late what he’d said.

“Nothing. Look, forget it. Just can you send the reminder in the group? People are asking about the start time.”

But I wasn’t listening anymore.

My heart didn’t sink.

It hardened.

There had been a fund.

Money meant for me.

Money I had never seen.

“I